Tasting note
New Zealand is now acknowledged as one of the few countries to have successfully come to grips with the seductive, fickle, but supremely aristocratic Pinot Noir grape variety. One region in particular, is the world's southernmost winemaking area, Central Otago. It has the highest vineyards in the country located between 200 and 400 metres above sea level; 'wines with altitude' is the slogan of one winemaker. Plus, it has gained a prestigious international reputation for the best Pinot Noir in the world. Leading British wine writer Jancis Robinson MW named Central Otago in Decanter, as one of the top five New World wine producing regions, while top Aussie wine writer James Halliday said “This is God’s Country when it comes to Pinot Noir.” The wines have purity, intensity and vibrancy.

New Zealand adventurer Henry van Asch, along with the world famous A J Hackett started New Zealand's Bungy jumping phenomenon. Henry then turned his passion to wine, and joined forces with his brother-in-law, Tom Hutchinson, to create an exciting wine made from Pinot Noir, that mirrored his passion for life. All of the Freefall wines embrace the excitement of adventure, as if reflecting the thrilling 'freefalling' sensation experienced during a bungee jump, hence the name.

Their philosopy in winemaking starts with the grape – 'fine wine begins with the vine'. They carry out sustainable viticulture, striving for balance in the vineyard, mirroring what the French call terroir. Theo Coles is the internationally experienced and talented winemaker behind the 2006. After fermentation, it was transferred to three-year-old, air-dried French barriques, with a total of 20% new oak also used. Predominantly older oak barrels were used to bring to the fore the clean vibrant fruit flavours that Central Otago is famous for. As well as being awarded the title of the 'Most outstanding Pinot Noir under $30' in New Zealand, it received silver in the 2008 International Wine Challenge.

Heady aromas of black cherry and spicy, warm pastry notes are complemented by generous, full-textured black fruit flavours. Midway, there are rich savoury complexities balanced by ripe tannins, leading to a touch of sweet dark chocolate on a lingering finish. Enjoy alongside braised lamb shoulder with a redcurrant jus, Winter salad of Jerusalem artichoke, smoked duck, pork belly with celery and roasted red onions, or a ripe blue cheese, like Bleu d'Auvergne. Drink by end 2010.

	Type:Still Red Wine		Country:New Zealand		Appellation:Central Otago
	Grape Type:Pinot Noir		Drink Before:End of 2010		Body:Medium Bodied
	Alcohol:14.5%		Bottle Size:75cl		Bottle Code:60478

Description
"Central Otago - impressively seductive, delicious Pinots" (The Independent). Thrilling Pinot from bungie-jump co-founder Henry van Asch that mirrors his passion for life. Cult status in New Zealand. Be among the first to enjoy it - pure, intense and vibrant.

International Wine Challenge 2008, United Kingdom

Tim Atkin - The Guardian Wine Foldies 2008, United Kingdom